K-SNAPP

Yoo Ji-an Silences “Nepotism Casting” Claims With Standout Acting in ‘Agent Kim Reactivated’

Yoo Ji-an joins Fantagio’s next-gen lineup alongside Cha Eun-woo and Kim Seon-ho

SBS, Agent Kim Reactivated, Joo Sang-wook, Yoo Ji-an, Fantagio, Cha Eun-woo, Kim Seon-ho, Lee Sung-kyung, Moon Ga-young
유지안 [사진: 판타지오]

Actor Yoo Ji-an is making a powerful first impression with her debut role.

After just four episodes, SBS’s Friday–Saturday drama Agent Kim Reactivated has soared past a 20% viewership rating nationwide, becoming a breakout hit. In the series, Yoo Ji-an plays Joo Hye-ri, the feared school bully and daughter of the chairman of Joo Hak Construction, portrayed by Joo Sang-wook—amping up the show’s tension with every scene.

Before the premiere, some questioned whether Yoo Ji-an’s casting was a “nepotism” move, noting that her agency, Fantagio, co-produced the drama. But once the first episode aired, she shut down the controversy with her performance. Yoo Ji-an portrayed Joo Hye-ri’s complex emotional shifts with striking realism, without a hint of rookie awkwardness—meeting public expectations head-on. In particular, her tightly wound on-screen chemistry with Seo Soo-min, who plays Kim Min-ji, drew praise for pulling viewers even deeper into the story.

With a debut attached to a show breaking the 20% mark, Yoo Ji-an is already making waves—earning a spot in Fantagio’s next-generation lineup alongside heavyweights Cha Eun-woo, Kim Seon-ho, Lee Sung-kyung, and Moon Ga-young.